Abu Mwesigwa, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, Jessica Alupo, Kampala Serena Hotel, photography, Uganda, presidential press unit, photojournalism, book launch
Renowned Ugandan photographer Abu Mwesigwa has officially launched his long-awaited pictorial book, Moments with Mzee, offering a visual account of his 12 years documenting the life and leadership of Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
The launch took place on May 8, 2026, at Kampala Serena Hotel and attracted government officials, media personalities, photographers, and invited guests from across Uganda’s arts and political circles.
Uganda’s Vice President Jessica Alupo officiated at the event and delivered a message from President Museveni praising the project and its contribution to preserving national history through photography.
A Visual Journey Through Uganda’s Political History
Moments with Mzee captures more than a decade of political, social, and personal moments surrounding President Museveni’s leadership.
As a senior photographer in the Presidential Press Unit, Mwesigwa gained close access to state functions, campaign trails, diplomatic visits, and behind-the-scenes interactions rarely seen by the public.
The book combines carefully selected photographs with personal reflections from the photographer’s experience working alongside the President for over a decade.
Among the standout images is a widely discussed photograph of President Museveni jogging in Kabale, which Mwesigwa has described as one of the most memorable moments from his career behind the lens.
The publication presents both official state moments and quieter personal scenes, giving readers a broader look at Uganda’s political leadership and public life.
From Kajjansi to the National Stage
Abu Mwesigwa was born in Kajjansi in Wakiso District in 1989. He studied photography at Makerere University’s Margaret Trowell School of Industrial and Fine Arts, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Fine Art.
He began his professional career at New Vision, covering assignments that ranged from politics and current affairs to fashion and urban life. His work quickly earned recognition through multiple photography awards during his time at the media house.
His transition to the State House media team marked a major turning point in his career, placing him at the center of national events and historic political moments.
More Than a Photo Book
Mwesigwa says the project reflects his personal experience documenting the President over many years.
He described each day around President Museveni as different, saying the book allowed him to tell a broader story through images captured during moments of national importance and everyday interaction.
The publication arrives just days before Uganda’s presidential inauguration ceremony scheduled for May 12, 2026, at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, giving the release added national significance.
Priced at around $100, Moments with Mzee positions itself as both a collector’s item and a historical archive documenting a major period in Uganda’s political journey.
Celebrating Photography and Storytelling
The launch also highlighted the growing role of photography in documenting Uganda’s history and culture.
Guests at the event praised the book for showcasing the discipline and patience required in documentary photography. Many described the project as an important contribution to Uganda’s creative industry and media space.
For young photographers, Mwesigwa’s journey stands as an example of how visual storytelling can shape public memory and preserve national events for future generations.
With Moments with Mzee now officially released, Abu Mwesigwa adds a lasting chapter to his career, turning years of work behind the camera into a public record of leadership, history, and photography in Uganda.
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